Heloise: Call before donating

Dear Heloise: As a librarian, I urge people to call their library before they donate books. Space is limited, and libraries try to keep the books most recently published for their patrons to read. If people have books more than a year or so old, I recommend that they take them to a charity or a similar organization. Thanks. — A Small-Town Librarian, via email

Thank you for sharing another point of view. If your library doesn't need your books, a librarian probably can refer you to an agency that will. Another great place to check is the American Library Association's website, www.ala.org. — Heloise

Dear Readers: Sharon in San Antonio sent a picture of her black terrier mix, Maggie, with one folded ear and one stuck-up ear. Sharon said Maggie sometimes listens with only that one stuck-up ear! Maggie was found along a country road and "adopted Sharon" soon after. To see Maggie and our other Pet Pals, visit www.heloise.com and click on "Pets." — Heloise

■ Carefully pouring hot water down the drain sometimes can cause a clog to break apart.

■ Of course, a plunger or plumbing snake (each available at large retailers) can help loosen a clog.

■ Turning to a professional plumber may be the safest and best bet. Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations.

— Heloise

Dear Heloise: Before removing the tablecloth from the serving table, I spot-treat all of the stains, but only if there is a pad under the tablecloth. By doing this while the cloth is still on the table, it is easier to find all of the spills, and since I remember what food was where, I can treat each stain accordingly. — Virginia in Houston

Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or you can fax it to 1-210-HELOISE or email it to heloise@heloise.com.